Seasonal forest path planted with forsythia, yellow kerria, spirea and more; insect hotels, bird nest and mushroom installations enhance nature-friendly ecological experience
Geumcheon-gu has officially opened the Hoam Maru Trail and observation deck on the slopes of Hoamsan, following a soft opening in February.
Geumcheon-gu (district mayor Yoo Sung-hoon) has officially opened in May the Hoam Maru Trail and observation deck built on the slopes of Hoamsan, following a temporary opening in February.
The Hoam Maru Trail is a gently graded boardwalk that winds through the Korean pine forest bathing area on Hoamsan. Walkers pass through groves of Korean pine and oak, rest at small shelters along the way, and can continue up to an observation deck offering a panoramic view of southern Seoul.
The district redesigned a previously steep and narrow path into a wide, accessible boardwalk so that visitors of all ages can safely enjoy the forest's scenery, recreation and restorative qualities.
Ground was broken in July 2025, and the trail drew an enthusiastic response from local residents after its temporary opening in February. The district subsequently carried out additional planting and installed ecological features to raise the trail's overall quality.
A variety of tree and shrub species were planted along the path to mark the changing seasons. In spring, forsythia, yellow kerria, spirea, lilac and royal azalea bloom in succession, brightening the forest walk. From early summer, lacecap hydrangea is expected to complement the surrounding greenery with a calm, lush landscape.
Guelder rose and burning bush will add further seasonal interest — flowering in spring, bearing fruit in summer and turning vivid colors in autumn — giving the trail year-round visual appeal.
Ecological installations were also added to help visitors connect with nature. Insect hotels built from natural materials such as pine cones and bamboo provide small habitat spaces where insects can rest and shelter, supporting biodiversity in the forest. Bird nest and mushroom decorations placed along the route make urban nature more approachable and engaging for visitors.
In addition, felled timber that had been scattered irregularly throughout the area was cleared away, improving the trail's appearance and making the walking environment more comfortable.
The district plans to manage the Hoam Maru Trail as a themed forest walk with a distinct narrative identity. It will monitor seasonal vegetation changes and incorporate visitor feedback to refine the landscape, while consistently carrying out safety inspections and environmental upkeep.
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